Allegri going for goals

Massimiliano Allegri says the Bianconeri need to ripple the back of the Monaco net if they are to head back to Turin with a Champions League semi-final place in the bag tomorrow night.

With the tie evenly poised following last week’s 1-0 triumph at Juventus Stadium, the Tuscan tactician underlined the importance of breaching the competition’s best rearguard on home soil, a task he appreciates is in no way a straightforward one.

Previewing the fixture in Monte Carlo, the 47-year-old began: “It’s still all to play for and we need to score to go through. We know Monaco a little bit better after playing against them, they’re a tough side who defend really well and are physically and technically gifted. It will be a difficult match just like the first leg, and we can’t afford to switch off for a second.”

Juventus travelled to Monte Carlo with no new injury worries and whilst keeping his cards close to his chest when quizzed on his starting line-up, Allegri confirmed that Arturo Vidal will be available for selection after coming down with a bout of the flu yesterday.

“I still haven’t decided my starting line-up for tomorrow. The substitutes will be crucial because it will be a long match. Vidal’s in good shape and trained with the team today. He had the flu yesterday, but is now feeling better and will be available for the game.”